Early Byzantine Iron Cross Finial

Ancient Near East, Holy Land, early Byzantine Empire, ca. 6th to 9th century CE. A fine processional cross of a simplified form forged from iron. The cross has a quartet of equally-sized arms which project from a central joint, and the crucifix is supported atop a conical socketing shaft for mounting atop a large pole. The Byzantine Empire was established in the fourth century CE when the Emperor Constantine, also known as Saint Constantine, Christianized the Roman Empire and pronounced the city of Constantinople in Byzantium as the capital. Size: 6.625" W x 8.375" H (16.8 cm x 21.3 cm); 8.75" H (22.2 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired around 1999

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#150204
Condition Report: Old losses to peripheries of arms and socket. Nice warm age patina with encrusted areas.